After a long week filled with too many takeout meals, I found myself desperate for a home-cooked dinner that would bring warmth and satisfaction. That’s when I discovered the delightful combination of Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes—a dish that feels like a hug on a plate. Imagine the savory aroma of seasoned beef mingling with the comforting scent of garlic mashed potatoes, transporting you to a cozy diner with each bite.
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. The juicy meatballs are baked to golden perfection, bathed in a rich, umami-packed gravy, while the creamy mashed potatoes infused with fresh herbs elevate your weekday meal to something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just giving yourself a treat, these meatballs promise to be a crowd-pleaser.
Let me take you through the steps to create this scrumptious dish that’s easy enough for anyone to whip up, yet impressive enough to serve for a special occasion. Get ready to ditch the fast food and embrace the heartwarming magic of homemade cooking!
Why You'll Love This Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
- This recipe is not only incredibly easy to make, but it also delivers rich and comforting flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- The juicy meatballs paired with creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes create a delicious combination that is sure to please both family and friends.
- Plus, the versatility of this dish means you can enjoy it on any occasion, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones.
- With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a satisfying homemade meal in just 45 minutes, saving you time while still impressing your guests.
- The visual appeal of the golden meatballs and fluffy mashed potatoes makes this dish as beautiful as it is appetizing.
Salisbury Steak Meatballs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• Ground beef – A rich protein base that keeps these meatballs juicy and flavorful.
• Plain breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs together while adding a touch of texture.
• Egg – A crucial binding agent that keeps the meatballs from falling apart.
• Small onion – Finely chopped for a savory depth that enhances flavor.
• Garlic powder – Adds a classic garlic flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
For the Gravy
• Low-sodium beef broth – Provides the savory base for a rich, comforting gravy without overwhelming saltiness.
• Soy sauce – An umami booster that elevates the savory notes in the dish.
• Cornstarch – Essential for thickening the gravy, creating a luscious sauce that clings to the meatballs.
For the Mashed Potatoes
• Russet potatoes – Their starchy nature yields creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes.
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor, creating the ultimate creamy texture.
• Milk or cream – Provides the perfect consistency and adds an extra layer of creaminess to your garlic herb mashed potatoes.

How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your meatballs bake evenly and don’t stick!
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Mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Combine gently until just mixed—this keeps your meatballs tender and juicy, not tough.
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Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Keep them spaced out so they cook evenly and develop that gorgeous golden color.
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Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes until they are browned and cooked through. You want them sizzling with juices—this is when the magic happens!
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Heat the beef broth in a saucepan over medium heat and stir in the soy sauce. This rich broth will serve as the savory foundation for your gravy.
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Whisk cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then add it to the simmering broth to thicken. Stir continuously until you achieve a lovely, velvety gravy texture.
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Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain them, then mash with butter and milk until creamy and smooth—this step makes all the difference!
Optional: For a hint of freshness, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the mashed potatoes before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Salisbury Steak Meatballs fresh while maintaining their delicious flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Mashed Potatoes: For mashed potatoes, store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk for a creamy texture.
What to Serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes?
Enhancing your meal with the perfect sides can take your dining experience to new heights, inviting delightful flavors and textures to the table.
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Steamed Green Beans: Their crispness adds a fresh contrast to the rich meatballs, balancing the meal beautifully.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasting these sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, offering a delicious, earthy element that complements the savory gravy.
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Garlic Bread: This classic favorite is perfect for soaking up the luscious gravy, while its buttery garlic flavor pairs wonderfully with your main dish.
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Garden Salad: A bright salad made with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette introduces a lightness, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Served with a simple lemon vinaigrette, the salad brightens every bite, lending a refreshing note to the hearty meatballs.
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Coleslaw: This crunchy, creamy side provides a delightful contrast to the warm, savory meatballs, enhancing flavor with its slight tanginess.
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Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the hearty flavors, elevating your dining experience and inviting conversation around the table.
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Chocolate Cake: Finish off your meal with a slice of rich chocolate cake; its sweetness is a delightful counterpoint to the savory meatballs.
Enjoying dessert is the perfect way to end the dinner on a hopeful note, leaving everyone with lasting memories of a satisfying meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort food even on the busiest nights. You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients, form the meatballs, and place them on a baking sheet. Cover tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. The mashed potatoes can also be prepped ahead; just boil and mash them, then store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before serving, reheat the mashed potatoes on the stove, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Bake your meatballs straight from the fridge for just a few extra minutes, and you’ll have a heartwarming meal ready with minimal effort!
Salisbury Steak Meatballs Variations
Feel free to elevate this dish with your own creative twists and substitutions that delight your taste buds!
- Healthy Swap: Substitute ground turkey for beef for a leaner version while maintaining flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative.
- Veggie-Loaded: Add finely grated zucchini or carrots into the meat mixture for an extra boost of nutrients and moisture.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the meatballs for a surprising heat.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the meat or mashed potatoes for an aromatic twist.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Replace milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt for richer, tangy mashed potatoes that also add creaminess.
- Umami Boost: Enhance the gravy with a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar for depth.
- Cheesy Delight: Fold in shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack into your mashed potatoes for a cheesy layer of goodness.
Let your imagination run wild and enjoy crafting a dish that's uniquely yours!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Salisbury Steak Meatballs, be sure to mix the ingredients just until combined to prevent tough meatballs.
- A common mistake is overcrowding the baking sheet; leave enough space between each meatball to allow even cooking and browning.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture alongside the soy sauce in the gravy.
- Keep an eye on your potatoes and test them with a fork around the 15-minute mark to ensure they are perfectly tender but not overcooked.
Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for the Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Absolutely go for a ground beef with 80/20 fat ratio; this ensures juicy meatballs packed with flavor. Lean meat may dry out, so a bit of fat goes a long way in enhancing taste and texture.
How should I store Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes?
For the fridge, make sure to store leftovers in an airtight container. They will keep well for up to 3 days; just ensure they’re completely cooled before sealing. This method helps maintain flavor and texture, allowing those tasty morsels to remain delicious!
Can I freeze Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes?
Yes! For freezing, place cooked meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely before packing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and either microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
What are some common issues when making meatballs, and how can I troubleshoot them?
A common issue is dry meatballs, which can happen if you overmix the ingredients or use too lean meat. Mix just until ingredients are incorporated, and aim for an 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio. If your meatballs are falling apart, try adding an extra egg or a bit more breadcrumbs to help them bind better.
Are these Salisbury Steak Meatballs suitable for someone with gluten allergies?
Certainly! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the plain breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure your beef broth and other condiments, like soy sauce, are also gluten-free.
Can I use a different type of potato for the mashed potatoes?
Very! While russet potatoes yield creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes, you can also use Yukon Gold for a buttery flavor. Just peel and cube them as you would russets, and follow the same boiling and mashing process to achieve that desired creaminess.

Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes until they are browned and cooked through.
- Heat the beef broth in a saucepan over medium heat and stir in the soy sauce.
- Whisk cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then add it to the simmering broth to thicken.
- Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes, then mash with butter and milk until creamy.
- Optional: For a hint of freshness, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the mashed potatoes before serving.





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